pelvic Pain
Understanding Pelvic Pain: A Biomechanical Perspective
Pelvic pain is a multifaceted issue, often affecting mobility, posture, and quality of life. While it can result from various causes, dysfunction in the sacroiliac joints is frequently at the heart of pelvic discomfort. By exploring the biomechanics of the pelvis and its interconnected structures, we can uncover the key contributors to pain and develop effective strategies for both treatment and prevention.
The Biomechanics of the Pelvis
The pelvis is a central hub for movement and stability, connecting the upper and lower body. It houses the sacroiliac joints (SIJs), which link the sacrum to the ilium bones of the pelvis. These joints play a vital role in transferring forces between the spine and legs during activities like walking, running, and lifting.
Optimal pelvic function depends on a delicate balance between stability and mobility. However, poor lateral stability—often linked to weak or underactive gluteus medius muscles which is directly linked to poor foot mechanics and a deconditioned core—can compromise SIJ function. Without adequate support from these muscles, the sacroiliac joints are forced to bear excessive loads, leading to pain and dysfunction. Over time, this can result in altered movement patterns and compensatory stress in the lower back, hips, and even knees.
The Role of Trauma in Pelvic Pain
Trauma is another significant factor in pelvic pain, particularly for individuals who have experienced childbirth. During pregnancy and delivery, hormonal changes, along with the physical stress of labour, can increase laxity in the pelvic ligaments, making the SIJs more prone to instability. While this laxity is a natural adaptation, it may create muscular imbalance that persists for some individuals, leading to ongoing discomfort and reduced functional capacity.
Other forms of trauma, such as falls or accidents, can also disrupt pelvic alignment and SIJ function. These events often trigger compensatory patterns that persist long after the initial injury, exacerbating pain and limiting mobility.
Chiropractic Care for Pelvic Pain
Chiropractic care can be particularly effective in the acute stages of pelvic sprains, where specific adjustments help restore joint function, alleviate pain, and support the body’s natural healing processes. These interventions provide some relief and help stabilize the pelvis during the initial phase of recovery.
However, chronic or recurrent pelvic pain requires a more comprehensive approach. Long-lasting relief often hinges on thorough testing and evaluation of the underlying functional units that support pelvic stability and movement. This includes assessing the core, gluteus medius, feet, and their integration within the myofascial system.
Once these functional deficits are identified, a targeted plan can address the imbalances through a combination of soft tissue techniques, specific exercises, and functional re-education. Techniques that improve the function of the myofascial network enhance lateral stability, while strengthening the core and gluteus medius restores the pelvis's ability to support and distribute forces effectively. Addressing these underlying issues ensures a sustainable resolution to pelvic pain, rather than temporary symptom relief.
Preventing Pelvic Pain through Biomechanical Correction
Long-term prevention of pelvic pain requires addressing the underlying functional units that support pelvic stability and alignment. Specific exercises for the gluteus medius is crucial for improving lateral stability, while exercises for the core enhance the pelvis's ability to distribute forces effectively. Stretching may also promote balanced pelvic mechanics and further protect against dysfunction.
These proactive measures, combined with chiropractic care that identifies and corrects compensatory patterns, create a sustainable foundation for pelvic health. By addressing the root causes of imbalance and dysfunction, this comprehensive approach not only prevents pain but fosters efficient, pain-free movement for the long term.
Pelvis related Conditions
Sacroiliac joint sprain.
Sacroiliac joint irritation / instability.
Pelvic floor dysfunction.
Coccyx subluxation.
Piriformis syndrome.
I’ve had nearly 50 yrs of back pain and during that time have visited many different chiropractors and osteopath’s and can say that Ed is excellent at both diagnosing the causes of the pain and discomfort and safety treating.